Tokyo-inspired running shoe masks ASICS' cutting-edge technology
ASICS has unveiled its latest foam innovation, FF TURBO SQUARED, in its running shoes and racers. This new technology promises next-level energy return, enhancing the performance of the brand's popular models.
Three Distinct Shoes with Unique Features
The ASICS FF TURBO SQUARED, MEGABLAST, and SONICBLAST running shoes each offer unique features catering to different running experiences. With key differences in cushioning, speed, and ride feel, these shoes provide versatility for runners of all paces.
SONICBLAST: A Fast and Comfortable Daily Trainer
The SONICBLAST features a dual-layer midsole with FF BLAST™ MAX cushioning and FF TURBO™ SQUARED foam, accompanied by an ASTROPLATE™ Pebax plate. This combination delivers a smooth, bouncy ride suited for speedwork and tempo runs, making it a fast, comfortable daily trainer with a slightly firmer and more refined feel.
The SONICBLAST's upper is made from breathable jacquard mesh, providing a snug but not restrictive fit. Its weight is around 7.4 oz (207 g) for a women's 7.5, making it relatively light.
MEGABLAST: Maximum Bounce and Softness for Easy and Recovery Runs
The MEGABLAST emphasizes maximum bounce and energy return with a full-length FF TURBO™ SQUARED cushioning midsole. It features an ASICSGRIP™ outsole for excellent traction and an engineered mesh upper for breathability and comfort over longer runs or recovery days. The ride is more cushioned and accommodating than the Sonicblast’s, making it better for easy days or runners who want plush responsiveness with less stiffness.
FF TURBO SQUARED: The Core Cushioning Technology
FF TURBO SQUARED is the midsole foam technology common to these models but varies in how it’s used. In the SONICBLAST, it’s combined with FF BLAST MAX foam and a Pebax plate to create a layered cushioning system that balances softness with responsive propulsion. In the MEGABLAST, FF TURBO SQUARED foam runs full length, maximizing bounce and energy return with a softer, more forgiving feel.
Choosing Your Perfect ASICS Running Shoe
In essence, choose the SONICBLAST for a speed-focused, responsive trainer with a plated pop, the MEGABLAST for maximum bounce and softness ideal for easy and recovery runs, and recognize FF TURBO SQUARED as the core cushioning technology that delivers energetic propulsion across these models.
The SONICBLAST is part of the Tokyo Collection by ASICS, and its design is inspired by Tokyo's harmony of tradition and innovation. The MEGABLAST comes in bold new colors. The SONICBLAST weighs 256g for men and 223g for women, and shares the same 8mm drop as the MEGABLAST.
The new foam innovation seems to offer a considerable increase in 'bounciness' compared to the SUPERBLAST series. The SONICBLAST's Jacquard mesh upper ensures increased comfort during intense workouts. The MEGABLAST is a daily trainer with a lightweight, engineered woven upper, a 46mm stack height, and a target weight of 230g (men’s US 9.2).
Price and availability for the SONICBLAST are yet to be announced. For more information, visit ASICS.
The Tokyo Collection by ASICS includes the MEGABLAST, SONICBLAST, Novablast 5, GEL-Kayano 32, and GEL-Nimbus 27. The FF TURBO SQUARED is expected to bring next-level energy return to these models. The SONICBLAST features a carbon-reinforced ASTROPLATE for increased speed. The new foam innovation debuts in two new silhouettes, the MEGABLAST and the SONICBLAST.
- The ASICS SONICBLAST, with its carbon-reinforced ASTROPLATE, combines gadgets like FF BLAST™ MAX cushioning and FF TURBO™ SQUARED foam with technology, offering a speed-focused, responsive runner's shoe.
- The ASICS MEGABLAST, while featuring an engineered mesh upper, employs the same core technology, FF TURBO SQUARED, to provide a plush daily trainer with maximum bounciness appropriate for easy and recovery runs.
